TREATMENT OVERVIEW

Permanent Peripheral Nerve Stimulator Implant

The Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) implant is the procedure that turns the successful results of your trial into a long-term, sustainable reality. By placing the entire system discreetly under the skin, this minimally invasive surgery provides a powerful and convenient way to manage your chronic nerve pain, allowing you to regain control and return to a more active life.

Medical illustration of a fully implanted PNS system with a lead near a knee nerve
Patient discreetly using a small wireless remote to adjust their PNS therapy

Quick Facts

  • • Procedure Duration: Approximately 1 hour
  • • Recovery: Activity restrictions for several weeks
  • • Pain Relief: The same successful relief from your trial
  • • Device Lifespan: Long-lasting, rechargeable batteries

PROCEDURE DETAILS

What is the Procedure?

The implant is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed in a sterile setting under sedation and local anesthetic. As in your successful trial, a new, sterile lead is precisely placed next to the target peripheral nerve using ultrasound guidance.

A second, small incision is made in a nearby discreet location, such as the upper buttock or thigh. Your surgeon then creates a small pocket under the skin to hold the compact implantable pulse generator (IPG), which is the system’s long-lasting power source.

The lead is then gently passed under the skin from its position near the nerve to the IPG pocket, where it is connected. The system is tested, and both small incisions are closed. The entire system is now internal, controlled by you with a simple wireless remote.

TREATMENT ADVANTAGES

What are the Benefits?

A permanent PNS implant offers a life-changing opportunity to move beyond temporary measures and embrace a durable, targeted, and drug-free pain management solution.

Durable, Long-Term Relief

Provides consistent, long-term management for your chronic nerve pain, giving you the freedom to live your life on your own terms, not your pain's.

Discreet and Convenient

The entire system is invisible under your skin. You can shower, swim, and live your life without any external components to manage.

On-Demand Pain Control

You are in complete control. A simple wireless remote allows you to adjust the therapy, change programs, and turn it on or off whenever you need.

Reduced Medication Need

As a powerful, drug-free therapy, PNS can significantly reduce or even eliminate your need for long-term oral pain medications and their many side effects.

Targeted Therapy

Your therapy remains focused only on the problematic nerve, providing relief exactly where you need it without causing widespread effects elsewhere.

Restored Lifestyle

The ultimate goal is to enable you to get back to what matters—whether it's work, hobbies, or simply living with significantly less pain.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

What are the Risks and Side Effects?

The PNS implant is a safe and effective surgical procedure, but like any implanted device, it carries potential risks and side effects that your surgeon will discuss with you in detail.

Common Side Effects

  • Post-operative pain, bruising, and swelling at the incision sites
  • Lead migration (movement) before the device fully heals in place
  • Discomfort over the implant site
  • Uncomfortable or ineffective stimulation requiring reprogramming

Rare Complications

  • Infection, which may require removal of the system
  • Bleeding or fluid collection (hematoma/seroma)
  • Nerve irritation or injury
  • Device or lead failure requiring a revision procedure

Important: Carefully following your post-operative activity restrictions is the most important step you can take to prevent complications like lead migration and ensure a successful, long-lasting outcome.

PREPARATION GUIDE

How to Prepare for the Procedure?

Proper preparation is key to a successful and smooth procedure. Please review the following important steps to ensure you are ready for your appointment.

Review of Allergies

Ensure you have a thorough review with Dr. Fura. Disclose all allergies, especially to medications like contrast dye.

Medication Adjustments

Stop blood thinners and other specific medications as instructed by Dr. Fura before your procedure.

Fasting & Transportation

Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home afterward.

Day of Procedure Attire

Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Avoid jewelry and leave valuables at home for safekeeping.

RECOVERY GUIDE

What is the Post-Procedure Care?

Your recovery is focused on allowing the internal system to heal and anchor in place. Following activity restrictions is essential for a successful outcome.

First 24 Hours

After a short monitoring period, you will go home with a driver. The focus is on rest and managing soreness at your incision sites with ice and prescribed medication.

First Few Weeks

You will have strict activity restrictions, avoiding movements that could pull on the new lead. You'll learn how to care for your incisions to ensure they heal properly.

Healing & Programming

At your follow-up visits, we will check your incisions and a device specialist will work with you to fine-tune the stimulation programming for your optimal comfort and relief.

Return to Activity

Once your doctor confirms the lead is securely healed in place (usually 6-8 weeks), your activity restrictions will be lifted, and you can begin enjoying your new level of pain relief.

When to Contact Your Doctor

  • Signs of infection (fever, chills, redness, drainage) at either site
  • A large, painful fluid collection at the implant site
  • Sudden loss of stimulation or a painful, shocking sensation
  • New or worsening weakness or numbness in the limb

Ready to Get Started?

Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.

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